This week I introduced the new book, The Chronicles of Harris Burdick, to my students. The Mysteries of Harris Burdick was first published in 1984 by Chris Van Allsburg. The book included black and white illustrations with only a title and a caption. The story was up to your own imagination. The illustrations have been used as writing prompts for years. The new book features stories written by well-known middle grade writers. Or, as Lemony Snicket would like us to believe, they were all written secretly by Harris Burdick himself. Whatever you believe, the book is a magical collection of model stories.
We read together a story written by Jon Scieszka, “Under the Rug.” In this story, the narrator’s grandmother speaks in idioms. We all laughed together at Grandma, “All that glitters is not gold. Beware the calm before the storm. Those pants make you look fat.” After our discussion, I asked the students to select their favorite idiom and write about it. I wish you could hear the playful sibling rivalry in Brooklyn’s voice when she read her poem, “Back Seat Driver.”
Bossy, bossy
Coach, coach
Telling me what to do
Move over here,
Go over there
He might just get hit with a shoe.Such a backseat driver,
If I do say so myself,
Only a big brother thing
I wonder if his head goes ding
Whenever something falls from above
like a 2×4 shelf.
Fun poem, Margaret! Since I have a big brother, I could definitely relate. Brooklyn’s ending was quite a surprise. 🙂 Will have to look for the Chronicles of Harris Burdick now.
I hadn’t heard of this new book, but I loved the original. I wonder if the new one will take away some of the imaginative wonder of the first, by providing scenes/characters/plots/action to accompany the illustrations? It almost negates the first book.
I had my students select a picture to write about before reading any of the stories. Then we will read and discuss how different authors have different ideas and purposes. I think it will only enhance the impact of the first book.
I have yet to get my hands on both The Chronicles of Harris Burdick and The Mysteries of Harris Burdick. Chris van Allsburg is simply fabulous!
I love Brooklyn’s poem! With 3 big brothers and 6 big sisters (yes, I’m the youngest of 10) I could definitely relate to the feelings of Backseat Drivers! I hadn’t heard of that Chris van Allsburg title – will look for it now. =)
The stories are delightful. I’ve used the book often in the past, even for just discussions. It is magical. How fun that you had your students write their own responses. Backseat Driver is fun, & I imagine big brothers (or sisters) would have plenty to say when one is driving. Thanks Margaret.
Fun! I’ve watched my daughters wish for 2x4s to use on their big brothers.
Love both Harris Burdick books. Thanks for suggesting a poetic way to use them!
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